Three Colorado Rapids Academy players and U16 Head Coach Chris Cartlidge were recognized nationally on Thursday evening at the U.S. Soccer Development Academy End-of-Year Banquet, given to the top youth players in the United States.
Defender Samuel Vines was named to the U17/18 Central Conference Best XI, while Milo Garvanian and Eben Noverr also earned Best XI accolades in the U15/16 age group.
Vines, known for his powerful left foot and attacking presence, was an unquestionable starter for the Rapids U18 side this past season. Despite being best known for his vision on the field and passing skills, Vines also notched three goals in 24 regular season matches.
Midfielder Milo Garvanian had a stellar year with the U16s, scoring two goals in 16 regular season contests. The dynamic attacker also saw action in eight games for the U18s, and is currently with the team in California ahead of the DA semifinal. Vines and Garvanian will look to tackle Texans SC Houston this Friday, July 14 at 6:30 p.m. MT (WATCH LIVE).
Joining Garvanian in the U16 Best XI was Noverr. A defensive force with a knack for goal - seven goals in 17 games - helped guide the squad to a 14-6-6 regular season record, as well as a trip to the Development Academy quarterfinals.
Cartlidge, who joined the Rapids Academy staff in 2015, was among four coaches that took home Coach of the Year honors. Since his arrival in Commerce City, Cartlidge’s objective has been to ensure players within the system are provided with the proper education and environment to reach their potential. This season, Cartlidge led the U16s to the Development Academy quarterfinals.
Below are the full Development Academy Best XI selections for the Central Conference.
U17/18
GOALKEEPER: Steve Tekesky (Sporting Kansas City)
DEFENDERS: Jon-Talen Maples (Lonestar SC Academy), Jack Maher (St. Louis Scott Gallagher Metro), Samuel Vines (Colorado Rapids), Aedan Stanley (St. Louis Scott Gallagher Missouri)
MIDFIELDERS: Christian Cappis (Texans SC Houston), Brandon Servania (FC Dallas), Wan Kuzain Wan Kamal (Sporting Kansas City)
FORWARDS: Daniel Wright (Crew SC Academy Wolves), Thomas Warr (Indiana Fire Academy), Derek Dodson (Sockers FC)
U15/16
GOALKEEPER: Damian Las (Chicago Fire)
DEFENDERS: Nathan Toledo (FC Dallas), Eben Noverr (Colorado Rapids), Nick Stone (Crew SC Academy Wolves), Axel Alejandre (FC United Soccer Club)
MIDFIELDERS: Milo Garvanian (Colorado Rapids), Cameron Duke (Sporting Kansas City), Isaiah Parente (Crew SC Academy)
FORWARDS: Brayan Padilla (FC Dallas), Joshua Penn (Sockers FC), Gianluca Busio (Sporting Kansas City)
